“Why do people say 'grow some balls'? Balls are weak and sensitive. If you wanna be tough, grow a vagina. Those things can take a pounding.”-Betty White

So you can’t find the fountain of youth and a genie is nowhere to be found. No worries. Here are some tips on how to live a longer and more fulfilling life!Don’t be a Scrooge Getting older does not have to mean losing your child-like sense of humor. There is a saying, “To be old and wise you must be young and stupid.” So when you're getting older, just be wise and laugh about the “stupid”! Don’t let those face lines be from simply old-age. Let people see they are laugh lines! If you still can’t find proof there are awesome elders out there, check out my girl Betty White! She’s killing it and is what? In her 90’s? Watch her show, Off the Rocker, it proves that old people can be more fun than most youth! Have a Pet It is proven that owning a pet can reduce depression and promotes well-being. Here are some reasons you should get a pet:

They care and love unconditionally

They can keep you active

You can meet new people (through training classes, animal parks, and events)

They don’t judge

They do wild and crazy things that will make you laugh

They are completely loyal

They depend on you

Engage your MindKeeping up your brain activity is vital to live a long and healthy life. My grandfather is constantly doing Sudoku’s in order to keep his brain sharp. Here are some things you can do to keep your brain movin’:

Learn to play an instrument

Play word and brain teaser games

Crosswords

Get a Word-of-the-Day Calendar

Read new books

Exercise

Be outdoors

Write in a journal

Learn a new language

Travel

Play games

Come up with new ideas (decorating, recipes, projects, anything!)

Stay Active This is one that you hear over and over again, but there is a reason! Staying still is not a good thing. Even if you can’t do full-on exercises just find simple ways to keep your body active. You can go for walks, clean the house, or even stand instead of sit.Surround Yourself with the Right People I truly believe that we are our surroundings. If you are around negative people you will become more negative. This formula works in the other way too. If you are around people who love life and are living it to the fullest, you will start to follow their path. So try and be around people who are motivated, loving, fun, and overall happy people. Reduce Stress Stress is not ALWAYS a bad thing. We can use stress to motivate us or evaluate certain aspects of our lives. However, too much stress can cause many health issues and even lead to death. There are many ways you can reduce stress:

Talking with a friend or confidant

Writing down your emotions

Live in the present

Meditation/Yoga

Stay active

Spend time with friends and family

Love Your Career Happier professionals are healthier professionals. For many of us, our career/job takes a huge chunk of our time. If you are spending so much of your life doing something, shouldn’t you enjoy it? Being in a work environment that you enjoy will help relieve stress, make you a more enjoyable person to be around, and will keep you looking forward to the days ahead instead of dreading them.Motivation Give yourself a reason to get up each morning. It has been said that a lot of people pass-away after they retire. The reason? Because they no longer have to get up for a job or routine. The key to a long life is always having something to look forward to. Here are some little things you can do to keep yourself looking forward to the days to come:

Make a bucket list

Plan a future vacation

Plan future lunch dates with friends

Get tickets for an event

Write down your blessings

Make a list of your loved ones

Constantly make a list of new goals

Make a list of the things you love about yourself

Get a side job

Take up a new hobby

Now go out and live!

And some closing words from the Queen-Bee herself:“It’s [old age] not a surprise, we knew it was coming – make the most of it. So you may not be as fast on your feet, and the image in your mirror may be a little disappointing, but if you are still functioning and not in pain, gratitude should be the name of the game.” -Betty White